Emmanuel God with us; He has promised never to leave us nor forsake us. There is a connection between Christmas and New Year that we often miss. At Christmas we were reminded again that God is with us. The message of Christmas should prepare us for the New Year and also serve as a springboard for a happy New Year. The presence of God in our lives makes all the difference. In the Bible when I read the phrase “But God,” I am always excited because it talks about the difference God makes in the situation. Joseph had a “But God” experience, we read about it in Genesis 50:20 “But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring it to pass, as it is this day, to save so much people alive.” Joseph had many challenges, he was put in prison for an offence he did not commit. The Bible states “But the Lord was with Joseph…” Genesis 39:21. God saw Joseph through it all and he was taken from the prison to the palace. Joseph was promoted and made ruler over all the land of Egypt. Praise the Lord! God gave Joseph a new beginning filled with hope, and there was more good news, Joseph’s family, the children of Israel, and the nation of Egypt were also blessed. This is the difference God can make in our lives and in our circumstances as we put our trust in Him.

Nothing ahead of you is bigger or stronger than the power of Almighty God, for “greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world.” You’ve got the power to live the abundant and victorious life in 2014. The choice is up to you. If like Joshua in the Bible, you can say “but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” you have made a wise choice. “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might.” Ephesians 6:10. In 2014 expect great things from God and do great things for God, for He is with you. Happy New Year!